The Thai Restaurant Association says while the labour shortage remains unresolved, restaurant operators are using technology to ease the problem.
Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the association, told the Bangkok Post both front of house and kitchen operations have struggled to address the labour shortage.
There is no formal survey on the exact number of workers or restaurants operating in the country, she said.
Restaurants and beverage stores are projected to generate 673 billion baht in revenue this year, according to a May analysis by Kasikorn Research Center.
Demographic changes are intensifying the issue, as data from the National Statistical Office indicates Thailand is an aged society, with more than 20% of the population 60 or older.
Restaurants are also competing with other sectors such as hotels, retail and logistics to attract workers, said Mrs Thaniwan.
As a result, higher demand for employees may drive up wages, and larger operators, who can offer better salary and benefits, are at an advantage.
Labour typically accounts for 15-20% of operating costs for a restaurant, she said.
The new generation of workers has more employment options including online and freelance work, and many prioritise work-life balance. To retain staff, restaurants must adapt their business operations to meet changing expectations, said Mrs Thaniwan.
TACKLING CHALLENGES
To address these challenges, restaurants have adopted technologies such as QR code ordering, digital payment systems, and point-of-sale systems. The solutions help reduce errors, minimise paperwork and speed up operations.
Streamlined menus also simplify processes and inventory management, she said.
The association highlights communication skills, a commitment to service, problem-solving ability and food safety practices as crucial for a restaurant workforce.
Mrs Thaniwan said the industry encourages employees to have multiple skills and be tech-savvy so they can switch roles as needed and support colleagues.
"The industry may reduce workers, but their capabilities will increase," she said.
The association recommends the government elevate the image of the restaurant industry by promoting it as a stable profession with a clear career path.
Restaurant operators should also consider hiring older individuals, adapting workplace processes to suit their needs, said Mrs Thaniwan.
